Derick Elomina discovered poker at 14, playing home games with his high school friends. What began as a pastime quickly grew into a passion that shaped his career. By 21, he entered the poker industry as a field reporter — just old enough to step foot inside the casino. Starting as a hand reporter, he steadily honed his craft, blending sharp observation with growing writing skills. Known for his dedication, he constantly roams the floor to capture the action, conduct interviews, and deliver live updates. With a strong commitment to the game and a passion for telling poker’s stories, Derick continues to build his path in the industry.

Updated: 2025.12.17

Samson Hiu Zuo Kai is a Singaporean poker player who regularly competes in the Asian tournament circuit, building a resume defined by consistent deep runs in the Philippines and Japan.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Samson Hiu Zuo Kai has accumulated approximately $11,629 in total live earnings. His career-best score came in June 2025 at the Manila Super Series 22, where he finished 3rd in the Mini Main Event for ₱240,000 (∼$4,437).

He has maintained a steady presence in 2025, recording multiple cashes at the Manila Megastack 23 in PokerStars LIVE Manila last December. His results at this festival included a 5th place finish in the No Limit Hold’em – Shotclock event for ₱58,500 (∼$991) and a 21st place run in the Mini Main Event. Additionally, he expanded his reach to Japan, securing a final table appearance at the U Series of Poker (USOP) Osaka, where he finished 6th in the Night Mega event.

Biography & Poker Background

Based in Singapore, Samson Hiu Zuo Kai has established himself as a familiar face in the Southeast Asian poker scene. While many players focus solely on their local rooms, Hiu actively travels to major regional hubs, with a particular focus on the bustling poker rooms of Manila, Philippines. His schedule in 2025 demonstrates a commitment to the grinding circuit, participating in festivals like the Manila Megastack, Manila Super Series, and USOP Japan.

Play Style & Strategy

Hiu’s tournament record suggests a preference for faster-paced structures and lower-to-mid-stakes events. A significant portion of his cashes comes from “Turbo,” “Hyper Turbo,” and “Shotclock” formats, indicating he is comfortable making high-variance decisions under pressure. His success in “Mini Main” events further points to a strategy built around navigating large fields with manageable buy-ins, allowing him to maintain volume while competing for significant ROI in the Asian market.

Recent Attendances